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Hello Everyone!

Have you been hearing as many advertisements as I have for “gut-healthy” probiotic products lately? It seems like probiotics are the “whole grain” of 2011.

Product developers are quick to advertise their product as being good for the gut in order to boost sales. But are these products actually good for you?

Here is a video I shot right after reading the ingredients on a probiotic-granola I found in the fridge after a mother’s attempt to make a “healthy choice” for her kid – this is my take on the product. Plus a mention of a healthier probiotic drink.

Instead of “trickster” products like this, opt for some of my favorite REAL gut-heathy products:

Naturally Fremented Sauerkraut: Be sure this is a fermented product found in the refrigerator isle, not just in a can or jar on a shelf. It sould say “raw” or “living cutltures” on it. (Same deal with pickles).

Kimchee: An Asian mix of fermented vegetables (usually spicy) similar to Sauerkraut.

Kombucha: A fermented green or black tea with a bit of sugar. My favorite soda replacement!

Milk Kefir: A fermented, slightly sour tasting, milk or yogurt drink. Some people can’t tolerate conventional milk or dairy. But can eat fermented dairy products without discomfort!

Gut-healh is important. I recommend taking a high quality probiotic every morning. For kids, probiotics do come in chewable fruit flavors! Also try to eat a little bit of naturally occurring probiotics in food form about once a day. If you have digestive issues, maybe more. You have to find what is best for you – but don’t over do it starting out!

I hope this is helpful! Next week I plan to go more into how to find a good yogurt – which is another difficult product to decipher!

Also, I am going on a camping excursion this weekend learning how to forage for edible wild foods! Pictures and great info upon my return!